The Department of Health (DOH) extends its sincere congratulations to Dr. Susan Pineda-Mercado, former Undersecretary, on her appointment as the World Health Organization (WHO) Director for Programme Management (DPM) in the Western Pacific.
She is the inaugural Filipino to hold this esteemed position within a WHO region. Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, the new WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, officially announced her appointment earlier today.
Given the disproportionate impact of health issues on women, Dr. Mercado, a distinguished female public health leader, brings a wealth of experience, ethics, and expertise to her role. Notably, she has consistently addressed gender imbalances to promote health equity.
“The future is bright – Maganda ang ating bukas! Dr. Susan Mercado deserves the honor of this appointment. RD Saia has chosen his deputy well – the Philippines and our fellow Member States will find that she can be counted on to deliver for the health of all peoples of the Western Pacific. Congratulations!” remarked Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Secretary of Health.